Canada's Express Entry Update: No More Job Offer Points

Canada’s immigration landscape is witnessing a significant shift with a major update to the Express Entry system. As of March 25, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that candidates will no longer receive additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for having a valid job offer. This change removes an advantage that has traditionally helped many applicants secure permanent residence in Canada.

This blog delves into the significance of this policy shift, explaining how it impacts candidates and the broader Canadian immigration process.

Significance of the Policy Change in Express Entry

1. Leveling the Playing Field for All Candidates

Previously, candidates with a valid job offer could earn an additional 50 or 200 CRS points, depending on the position’s skill level and whether it was supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). With the removal of these bonus points, candidates without a job offer may now have a better chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

This policy shift means that candidates who excel in other core areas such as age, education, language proficiency, and work experience will have a stronger standing. As a result, Express Entry draws may now favour candidates with higher overall CRS scores, regardless of employment offers.

Learn more about CRS scoring and eligibility on A2Zimmi.

2. Curbing Fraud and Misuse of LMIA

One of the primary reasons for this change is to combat fraudulent practices related to LMIA-supported job offers. According to a statement by former Immigration Minister Marc Miller in December 2024, “This will eliminate incentives for candidates to purchase an LMIA,” referencing concerns over the misuse of employment offers for immigration gain.

By removing the incentive of CRS points for arranged employment, the government aims to strengthen the integrity of Canada’s immigration system. This move may reduce instances of LMIA fraud and ensure that only genuine job offers play a role in immigration pathways.

3. Impact on Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)

While CRS points for job offers are no longer awarded in Express Entry, a valid job offer may still be critical for certain Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams. Many provinces require an arranged employment offer as part of their nomination criteria, meaning candidates with job offers could still benefit through PNP pathways.

With the removal of bonus points, candidates may now shift focus toward securing a provincial nomination, which adds 600 CRS points—almost guaranteeing an ITA.

Find detailed PNP pathways and updates on A2Zimmi Consultation.

4. Strengthening System Integrity for Long-Term Stability

IRCC’s decision also reflects a broader strategy to safeguard the integrity of Canada’s immigration system. The overhaul is seen as a temporary measure, but its continuation depends on how effectively it curbs misuse and maintains transparency.

As CRS scores recalibrate without job offer points, the system is likely to benefit candidates who genuinely meet Canada’s labour market and immigration goals.

5. Encouraging Focus on Core Human Capital Factors

With job offer points removed, candidates must now strengthen their CRS scores by focusing on core human capital factors such as:

• Higher education levels

• Strong language proficiency in English and French

• Relevant Canadian work experience

• Youthful age advantage

These elements align closely with Canada’s economic needs, ensuring that future immigrants contribute positively to the nation’s growth.

Implications for Existing Express Entry Candidates

Candidates who have already received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) or have ongoing permanent residence applications are not affected by this change. However, candidates currently in the Express Entry pool will notice a drop in their CRS scores if they were relying on arranged employment points.

IRCC has clarified that updated CRS scores may take a few days to reflect. Candidates are advised not to contact the department unless their scores remain incorrect for more than a week.

What’s Next for Express Entry Candidates?

Although job offers no longer provide a CRS boost, candidates should explore alternative strategies to increase their CRS scores:

• Improving language test results
• Gaining additional work experience in Canada
• Pursuing higher education credentials
• Securing a provincial nomination through PNP

Pro Tip: Candidates should monitor updates from IRCC, as future changes could further reshape the Express Entry system.

Adapting to the New Express Entry Landscape

The removal of CRS points for job offers in Canada’s Express Entry system marks a pivotal change for immigration candidates. While this move eliminates an advantage for some, it opens up new opportunities for highly skilled candidates to secure permanent residence based on their core qualifications.

Ready to take the next step? Visit A2Zimmi to explore your immigration options or schedule a consultation for personalized guidance today!